The military poncho is a practical and versatile piece of gear used on battlefields for decades. With so many ways to use a military poncho — as something that can provide shelter and even serve as the ground underneath it — they are still highly regarded in the US Army (and beyond).
This article will take an in-depth look into everything you need to know about the military poncho, including its current use, how to wear and care for it, and the much-loved poncho liner.
Does the US Army Still Issue Ponchos?
Yes, the US Army still issues tactical ponchos, though they have undergone some modifications over the years. Today military ponchos and woobies are still constructive as rainwear and appropriate for camping, and survival activities. They are made from lightweight, durable materials such as ripstop nylon or similar materials, which offer waterproof protection while remaining easy to pack and carry. Soldiers have been using ponchos for years to protect themselves from the weather, as well as in emergencies like improvised shelters, ground covers, or even stretchers.
Why Are Military Poncho Liners So Warm?
The design and the material of military poncho liners or woobies make them incredibly warm. Filled with a light, synthetic fill usually consisting of polyester — this material retains heat well. The quilted design allows the heat to spread out evenly so that there are never any chilly spots. Unlike heavy wool blankets, the tactical poncho liner provides warmth without the bulk, making it easy to carry and use in a variety of situations.
Why Do Soldiers Love the Woobie?
Here are some of the main reasons why soldiers love their woobies:
1. Versatility and Practicality
The Woobie is a soldier’s most versatile piece of equipment. Though created to be paired with a military poncho for additional warmth, it doubles as an accessory used in many scenarios. It is commonly used as a blanket, sleeping bag, poncho liner, or field expedient shelter in combat situations.
2. Lightweight and Easy to Pack
The woobie is incredibly lightweight, which is crucial for soldiers who are already carrying heavy loads. It typically weighs only around 1 to 2 pounds, but despite its lightweight, it offers significant insulation.
3. Warmth and Comfort
One reason soldiers tend to get so attached is the warmth, comfort, and well-being a woobie provides. The woobie is comprised of soft, quilted nylon fabric with a polyester filling and was manufactured to warm linemen in cold or wet weather.
4. Quick Drying and Durable
The woobie is a synthetic blend and therefore keeps you warm, but if it does get wet dries relatively quickly. This fast-drying capability is essential in wet climates as it prevents soldiers from staying cold and wet for too long.
How to Wear a Military Poncho?
Wearing a military poncho is relatively straightforward, but ensuring it is worn correctly is important to maximize its protective qualities. Here’s how you can wear it:
1. Unfold the Poncho
Unfold the poncho thoroughly and lay it flat. The military-style ponchos are big square pieces of cloth with a hoodie in the center. Spread the material out so it can be easily installed.
2. Locate the Hood and Arm Openings
Locate the hood at the center front of the poncho. This involved shoving your head through the hood opening, just like you might with a hoodie on. Check that the hood fits around your head and neck properly
3. Secure the Sides
However, military ponchos are similar in that they often come with snap buttons or Velcro down the sides of the material, allowing you to fasten either side and both at once should you wish to make a pseudo-sleeve for your pattern.
4. Adjust the Length
When the poncho is too long, you can fold or tuck itself on its bottom so it will not drag under your feet. It is very useful for treading through difficult paths or in the case of a mud walk.
How Much Does a Military Poncho Weigh?
Military ponchos are made from different materials and models, and because of that the weight can be widely in between 1 to 2 pounds (0.45 to approximately 0.9 kg). This lightweight design is one of the poncho’s greatest advantages, making it easy to carry without adding significant bulk to a soldier’s pack.
How to Fold a Military Poncho?
Folding a military poncho correctly ensures that it takes up minimal space and remains easy to carry. Follow these steps to fold your poncho:
1. Lay the Poncho Flat
First, lay the poncho out on a flat surface—ground or table—and smooth it as much as possible. Be sure it is completely unfolded and wrinkle-free.
2. Fold in Half Vertically
Fold one side of the other poncho in half lengthwise, so that both sides are lined up. Keep the hood in line with this fold. Make sure the seams and edges line up as flush with each other.
3. Fold in Half Horizontally
Now, take the poncho and fold it over horizontally so that you’re bringing up the bottom edge to meet with the top. And finally, this one folds up into a narrow rectangle.
4. Roll it up
Begin at one of the ends and tightly roll up to ensure it is as small/folded down in size as possible. You can use the poncho’s drawstrings to tie it and keep it secure.
What Does the Army Call a Poncho Liner?
A poncho liner is a “woobie” in the US Army. This favorite piece of clothing has quite a history in the military for keeping soldiers warm and cozy while outside. A Military poncho liner woobie is simply a liner that can be added to the poncho for more warmth, or used alone as it has hook and loop strips built in.
How To Use A Military Poncho Liner?
The military poncho liner is easy to use and its versatility allows it to be used in the following situations:
1. As a Blanket
The most obvious use of a poncho liner is as a blanket. The super thin and ultra-lightweight makes it a great option to get extra insulation in cold places. When you are resting or sleeping, just wrap it around your blanket to have something extra to keep you warm.
2. Field Expedient Pillow
Space and resources being scarce, soldiers will generally grab their poncho liner as an ersatz pillow. Although the liner options are thin, if you fold or roll it up in your helmet then this will create a cushion for your head.
3. As an Insulated Layer
Attach the liner to your poncho to create an insulated shelter or a makeshift sleeping bag. Together, these two act as a sort of sleeping bag or insulation for more severe weather conditions.
4. Sleeping Bag Alternative
You can use the poncho liner as a lightweight sleeping bag in mild weather conditions. You can go full blanket mode — wrapping it around your body and using it sort of like a sleeping bag.
How To Wash Army Poncho?
Proper care of your army poncho will retain it in good condition for many years. There are a few steps to be taken for the correct cleanup and long-term maintenance of it:
- Hand wash with mild soap: To avoid damaging the waterproof coating, hand washing with mild detergent and lukewarm water is recommended.
- Avoid chemicals: Chemicals like bleach can cause the fabric to degrade and lose its water resistance.
- Air Dry: Do not machine dry or use any heat that may damage the material
Wrap Up
More intels about our Military ponchos
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Here at Kula tactical, we provide a wide array of premium-grade military gear like our poncho and warm liner hand-in-hand with the global demand for durable multitask equipment. Explore our selection to find the perfect addition to your tactical gear, whether you’re a soldier, camper, or survivalist.
